Michael B. Collins, Professor Emeritus of Musicology, passed away at Denton Regional Medical Center on May 12, 2011. A long-time resident of Denton, Texas, Prof. Collins taught the history of music at the University of North Texas for 33 years. Before that he taught for a number of years at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, N.Y. Born in Turlock to Dr. Marion C. Collins and Chrissie W. Collins, Michael received his education in the Turlock public schools and at Stanford University, where he received his doctoral degree in music. His instrument was the piano, and he specialized in the performance of Baroque music and the history of opera. His many publications include the book “Opera and Vivaldi.” He also served in U.S. Army intelligence in Germany during the Korean War.

Prof. Collins is survived by his sister, Margaret Gilbert of Peoria, Ariz.; brother, Tom Collins of Prescott, Ariz.; as well as eight nieces and nephews and 11 great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his younger sister, Linda Collins Maurer. He will be missed by his friends and colleagues and the hundreds of students whose lives he influenced.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions in Collins’ memory to the University of North Texas College of Music.

Online condolences may be left at www.mulkeymasondenton.com.